12 Killed in a Mandera Attack

At least 12 were killed by Al Shabaab militants in Mandera County, Kenya on Tuesday,25th October 2016. The early morning attack comes shortly after a similar attack on the 6th October 2016 where 6 people were killed, near Bulla Public Works. Both attacks targeted non locals.

The Tuesday attack happened at around 2.30am EAT, at Bisharo hotel. Improvised explosive devices (IED) were used that resulted to collapsing of part of the building which caused the deaths. Security officers on patrol responded in good time, cordoning the area and starting the rescue operation. 6 people were rescued from the debris, while occupants at the hotel were evacuated. Survivors and bodies of the dead have been flown to Nairobi.North Eastern Regional Commander, Mohammed Saleh, stated that investigations have begun and that bomb experts were onsite to establish the source of the explosion.

Among the dead were 2 members of a theater group comprising of university students that had traveled to Mandera to perform set book plays in the local schools, the others included quarry workers. Mandera governor Ali Roba, condemned the attack indicating that it was aimed at crippling the economy of the area.

In a statement by State House spokesperson Manoah Esipisu, stated that President Uhuru Kenyatta had cancelled his official trip to Angola, in solidarity with the families of those who lost their loved ones. The president was scheduled to travel to Luanda for a security summit on Wednesday; he will be represented by Deputy President William Ruto. President Uhuru has termed this attack as heinous, further adding that security agents will ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. He urged Kenyans to remain united and to work closely with security agents.

Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Joseph Ole Nkaiserri has stated that his ministry is working together with the Defense ministry to ensure the security of Kenyans.